Why Signing Hossa Could Hurt 'Hawks

(Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

The best free agent of 2009 is no longer on the market. Marian Hossa signed a huge deal with the Chicago Blackhawks, worth $62.8 million over a span of 12 years, possibly ending his career in the Windy City. The deal makes it look like the 'Hawks are getting a good deal, but the team's future could change significantly.

Chicago could be facing trouble as the contracts of Duncan Keith, Jonathan Toews, and Patrick Kane all expire after next season. Their values will all go up, meaning this already makes them tougher to sign, but with the market the way it is the salary cap is also expected to take a drop. It also doesn't help that it looks like the 'Hawks are overpaying Cristobal Huet and Brian Campbell.

Dale Tallon must be trying to make a run at the Cup, even though in my opinion Hossa is only a slight upgrade over Martin Havlat. Get ready Hossa, because you might not be able to make a run at the Cup for next year unless Kane, Keith, and Toews can all sign during next season. At least you are the only sure thing in Chicago.

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